During a class discussion at Saint Louis University (SLU), the harsh reality of student hunger came sharply into focus for one nursing student. She vividly recalls hearing about fellow students who spent their hours in the library, quietly avoiding the shame of having to beg for lunch. Deeply moved by this story, she felt a stirring determination to make a difference, despite the demands of her busy schedule. Motivated by compassion, Magnolia Ein Andrei Doria became a regular donor to Project Daily Bread (PDB), an initiative that provides meals to students in need.
It’s in moments like this where we see how empathy ignites meaningful action within a campus community and this ripple of kindness is far from isolated.
PDB’s impact extends beyond personal stories into institutional recognition. As an innovative and compassionate program, SLU advanced to 4th place globally in the Funding for Sustainability category of the 2025 World University Rankings Innovation (WURI). Further, the City Government of Baguio recently commended PDB for its steadfast commitment to student welfare and its innovative response to hunger. In finding an everyday solution to the recognized need, the project’s ability to secure resources for sustaining students’ welfare shines through international and local awards.
To fully appreciate such achievement, it helps to understand that PDB has served the community for over 14 years now. Having served thousands, each meal delivered remains to be a testament to SLU’s mission ad intra–caring for those within the community, preventing hunger from becoming a barrier to education and personal growth.
Building further on this advocacy, on 3 November 2025, SLU formalized a partnership with the City Government of Baguio through a Memorandum of Agreement on Free Youth Meals. The collaboration aims to broaden the reach and sustainability of the feeding program, symbolizing an inspiring synergy of academic mission and civic responsibility focused on youth welfare and empowerment.
PDB powerfully reflects CICM’s mission of service and transformation and the advocacy of social justice, peace, and care for creation, showing how faith in action can uplift a community through nurturing the vulnerable and fostering hope. The comprehensive and collaborative approach taken by the project is a shining beacon of SLU’s ongoing dedication to holistic and compassionate service, aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of No Hunger (SDG 2) and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).
Looking back, Ms. Doria’s heartfelt decision to transform concern into action encapsulates what PDB stands for– no Louisian should endure involuntary hunger while striving for their dreams. More than just providing food, the initiative embodies solidarity and genuine care. (Article by: Rennalyn Charmie Tajon, UIO Intern)
